One More Activist Canard Bites the Dust.

Ethyl Mercury, used in dental amalgams does not cause mental retardation or other mental illnesses. This new study in JAMA this week clearly demonstrates lack of effect. The thoughtful accompanying editorial points out that more than one study may be needed to settle the issue is worth resding.. When we consider the millions of dollars spent to refute activist fears about dangers of current vaccines, the use of thiomerasol , the use of cell phones, dangers of power lines, or the use of breast implants, we should beware of diversion of funds that could have been spent to improve the health of miliions, that has been wasted on studies to prove that 'nothing' happened or will happen, and also the costs of law suits and inappropriate awards. How many potentially useful vaccines and medications will not be developed because of our willingness to listen to every activist voice, even when there is no biological plausibility for their concern?.